On 11th September 2025, the management of the Technology Incubation Centre (TIC) Katsina honoured an invitation to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Katsina Office after a visit to the Special Adviser on Employment Promotion at the Katsina State Governor’s Office.
The Centre joined a one-day Capacity Building Programme on “Product Certification Tools for Global Market Access” organised by NEPC for registered exporters in the state.
The programme addressed the challenges faced by many entrepreneurs who struggle to take their products into international markets due to lack of proper certifications and knowledge of global standards.
According to NEPC officials, without proper certification, even quality products are often rejected at foreign borders, leading to financial losses, reduced customer trust and missed opportunities for young people seeking jobs in export driven industries.
The event brought together key stakeholders including the Katsina State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KATSCIMMA), the Commissioner of the State Ministry of Commerce,
Industry and Trade, United Bank for Africa (UBA), the Nigerian Shippers’ Council among others. They discussed how exporters can access product certification and take advantage of international trade opportunities.
Entrepreneurs from TIC Katsina who have benefitted from NEPC’s voluntary certification schemes were also present. One of the Centre’s entrepreneurs, Alikabs Global Links Nig. Ltd, shared his success story.
He explained that with NEPC’s support, he secured FDA and HACCP certifications which boosted customer trust and improved his brand’s global reputation. “These certifications have opened doors to five different export markets and we are already planning to expand further,” he said.
Alikabs encouraged participants to take the training seriously, noting that two entrepreneurs from TIC Katsina have already secured FDA certification this year while another two obtained HACCP certification.
He further highlighted that the Incubation Programme helps him maintain production standards and remain competitive in international markets.
The programme ended with networking and exchange of contacts, with several participants showing interest in visiting TIC Katsina to explore opportunities for collaboration and enterprise growth.